Sales tax collections continue to soar for Golden Triangle communities.
Columbus collected $836,246 in sales tax in June, for sales generated in April. The collection is more than $60,000 higher than June 2015, when the city took in $775,013.
According to the State Department of Revenue, Columbus’ retail sector generated more than $3 million in calculated taxes. The city’s accommodation and food services sector produced $791,721 in calculated taxes.
The Mississippi Department of Revenue does not offer a business-by-business breakdown of sales tax sources. However, Mayor Robert Smith said continued tourism growth and more business growth for local residents have contributed significantly.
“We know that the tax revenue comes from two sources,” Smith said. “Out-of-town visitors come here for special events and local residents that are here daily. With more restaurants and retail stores, Columbus residents now don’t have to drive to another town for shopping or a meal. We have it all right here and the money is spent at home. With the greater selection of retail stores and restaurants, residents are staying locally to eat and shop.”
Columbus collected $155,387 from the restaurant tax, which helps fund the Columbus-Lowndes Convention and Visitors Bureau. The total is an increase of more than $14,000 from last year’s $141,105.
Smith said the city’s expansive collection of restaurants and hotels are to thank for continued growth. He said work from groups such as the CCVB and the Trotter Convention Center help draw visitors to the city, which fuels economic growth.
“All of these reasons combine for increased sales tax revenue for Columbus,” Smith said. “We are grateful for the businesses and owners and employees that continue to make this investment in Columbus.”
Starkville
Starkville collected a total of $603,438.54 in June, almost $100,000 than the same month last year.
The city’s two-percent food and beverage tax generated $211,161.47. June marks the first time the city eclipsed the $200,000 mark for the food and beverage tax.
West Point
West Point collected $213,910 in sales taxes. The figure is up from last year’s 201,843.
West Point’s retail trade sector generated $673,880 in calculated taxes, according to the Mississippi Department of Revenue, while its accommodation and food services sector generated $170,880.
West Point Mayor Robbie Robinson attributed the economic growth to the positive business attitudes prevailing in the city.
“We just have a great atmosphere here,” he said. “Especially here along Highway 45, we’ve had tremendous growth, and we’re going to have more pretty soon.”
Robinson said the city’s strong downtown retail base has also helped anchor higher sales taxes.
“Right now, we have a really good, healthy atmosphere economically and psychologically,” he said. “It’s nothing the city has specifically done other than provide a stable local climate for people to flourish.”
Alex Holloway was formerly a reporter with The Dispatch.
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